Blue flag Beach                                       

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Context: International eco-label "Blue Flag”, has accorded the Blue Flag Certification for 2 new beaches this year –Kovalam in Tamil Nadu and Eden in Puducherry beaches.

• It’s recognition of India’s commitment to protect and conserve the pristine coastal and marine ecosystems through holistic management of the resources.
• Foundation for Environment Education in Denmark (FEE) which accords the globally recognized eco-label - Blue Flag certification, has also given re-certification for 8 nominated beaches Shivrajpur-Gujarat, Ghoghla-Diu, Kasarkod and Padubidri-Karnataka, Kappad-Kerala, Rushikonda- Andhra Pradesh, Golden-Odisha and Radhanagar- Andaman and Nicobar, which were awarded the Blue Flag certificate last year.
• This was aimed for achieving the globally recognized and the coveted International eco-label "Blue Flag” , accorded by International Jury comprising of members from IUCN, UNWTO ,UNEP, UNESCO etc.
• FEE Denmark conduct regular monitoring & audits for strict compliance  of the 33 criteria at all times.
• A waving “Blue Flag” is an indication of 100% compliance to these 33 stringent criteria and sound health of the beach.

About BEAMS program:

• The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change flagship program Beach Environment & Aesthetics Management Services (BEAMS) is one of the initiatives under ICZM approach undertaken for the sustainable development of coastal regions of India,  with a  prime objective  to protect and conserve the pristine coastal and marine ecosystems through  holistic management of the resources.
• The objective of BEAMS program is to abate pollution in coastal waters, promote sustainable development of beach facilities, protect & conserve coastal ecosystems & natural resources, and seriously challenge local authorities & stakeholders to strive and maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene & safety for beachgoers in accordance with coastal environment & regulations.

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1756806